BBC pundit Chris Sutton believes Southampton star Virgil van Dijk still wants to join Liverpool, and that the Reds should duly oblige in making an official bid for him.

van Dijk spent most of the summer being linked with the Anfield club, and went on strike to try and force through the move.

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Liverpool were reported to the Premier League by the Saints initially over their approach for the Dutch star, and there was never any follow up to their interest despite continued links right up until deadline day.

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For Sutton, it's plain and simple; Jurgen Klopp simply has to recruit van Dijk, who featured against his potential future club in the 3-0 defeat on Saturday.

Speaking in a Match of the Day Q&A session, as quoted by the Express, Sutton said: "I think it’s essential that Liverpool strengthen in January, defensively.